[Fixed] DPC Watchdog Violation Error In Windows 10

The DPC Watchdog violation error can occur due to numerous reasons. The main cause responsible for this error is the presence of corrupt system files. Apart from this, if the hardware and software are not compatible or the SSD firmware version is outdated, then also this issue might occur.

Once the problem occurs, then the Windows 10 will be restarted automatically and prevents you from saving all the important data and tasks on which you are currently working.

So, the best way is to find out the possible causes and overcome the situation.

Best Solutions to Fix DPC Watchdog Violation Error:

Here are some of the top-notch solutions to resolve the error within a flicker of time.

Solution 1- Change the SATA AHCI Controller Driver

According to a wide range of Windows 10 users, this is the most effective solution to this error. To apply this solution, follow the given steps.

• Press and hold the Windows and X keys together on the keyboard. After that, choose Device Manager. Under the Device Manager, expand the IDE ATA/ATAPI controllers. 
• Thereafter, right-click on the SATA AHCI Controller to see the Properties. 
• Now, to ensure that you have chosen the correct controller, proceed to the Driver tab and then click on the Driver Details option. 
• Under this part, ensure that the iaStorA.sys is listed as a driver. Tap on OK to exit.
• Furthermore, tap on the Update Driver. On the next page, mark the dialog box next to ‘Browse my computer for driver software’ option.
• Next, tap on the ‘Let me pick from a list of device drivers on my computer’ option. 
• On the next page, select Standard SATA AHCI Controller. Thereafter, tap on Next. 

Follow the online instructions to complete the rest of the procedure.

Solution 2- Upgrade the Device Driver

In case, the old driver is present on the solid-state drive (SSD), then you need to update the driver because it does not support Windows 10. 

• First, press and hold the Windows and E keys simultaneously to open the File Explorer. 
• Then, move to the Device Manager.
• Now, under the Device Manager, drop-down and select SSD. Take note of important information such as the model number and other related details.
• Thereafter, visit the manufacturer’s website and after that download and install the required updates for the SSD.

Solution 3-  Fix the Corrupt System Files

Corrupt system files lead to the glitch. To fix the problem, first, type ‘cmd’ in the search field and hit the Enter key.

Thereafter, right-click on the top result and select ‘Run as Administrator’. Within the Command Prompt, enter ‘sfc/scannow’ and hit the Enter key to run the command. 

Keep patience, as the scanning procedure might take a while to complete. Once done, then reboot your system and check the status of the error.

Solution 4- Run the Event Viewer

If none of the above three solutions work, then you are suggested to run the Event Viewer.  In order to do so, press and hold down the Windows and X keys together on the keyboard. 

From the available options, click on the Event Viewer, Within the Event Viewer navigates to the left-side and tap on the Windows Logo. Thereafter, select the System option.

Some listed events will appear in the middle of the display. You have to click on the ones marked by Error to see the error details. Next, choose the online troubleshooting solution and follow the online instructions to get rid of the situation.

Solution 5-  Check the Disk Errors

To avoid the DPC watchdog violation, you are advised to run the CHKDSK command. Follow the given directions to do so.

First, open the Run dialog box. After that, enter ‘cmd’ in the Run box and at the same time press the Ctrl, Shift, and Enter to open the Command Prompt as Administrator.

When a permission message appears on the screen, click on Yes.  Now, enter ‘chkdsk /f /r’ within the given field as well as press the Enter key.

Hold the Y key on the keyboard. Wait for the completion of the procedure. Once done, then again reboot your system and if the error still persists, then try the next solution.

Solution 6- Issue with the Hardware and Software

In case, the drive is not compatible with the hardware and software, and if you use multiple devices, then, plug in the devices one by one to identify the drive which is creating the problem.

After identifying the device, replace it for another compatible device. 

 Also, identify the problematic software and uninstall it. In order to do so, check out the given instructions.

• First, open the Control Panel by going to the Start menu. Within Control Panel, scroll down and select Uninstall a Program option.
• Under this section, locate the software that you have installed recently. After that, uninstall it.

Once you have successfully uninstalled the software, then reboot your system and check if the error has been resolved or not.